- …also orders withdrawal of case against KWAM 1
By Frank Ulom
ABUJA (CONVERSEER) – The Federal Government thought the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, has announced the withdrawal of criminal complaints against Comfort Emmanson and music star Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (popularly known as KWAM 1) over separate incidents of unruly behaviour in the aviation sector.
In a statement on Wednesday, Keyamo said the decision followed consultations with stakeholders, remorse shown by the parties involved, and appeals from well-meaning individuals. He stressed that the action was taken on compassionate grounds, while reaffirming the government’s commitment to aviation safety and security.
Emmanson’s Case with Ibom Air
Emmanson was arrested on 10 August 2025 for alleged unruly behaviour aboard an Ibom Air flight and had been remanded at Kirikiri Prisons. According to the minister, she expressed deep remorse during her police statement in the presence of her lawyer.
“I have conferred with Ibom Airline to withdraw the complaint against her today,” Keyamo said, adding that the Police Commissioner of the Airport Command and the police prosecutor will facilitate her release this week.
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The minister also confirmed that the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) had agreed to lift the lifetime ban imposed on Emmanson, with details to be announced by the association.
KWAM 1’s Case with ValueJet
On KWAM 1’s incident involving ValueJet, Keyamo revealed that the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) would reduce his flight ban to one month and engage him as an ambassador for proper airport security protocol.
The NCAA will also withdraw its criminal complaint against the singer, while ValueJet pilots Captain Oluranti Ogoyi and First Officer Ivan Oloba — who were suspended over the same incident — will have their licences restored after serving a one-month ban and undergoing mandatory professional reappraisal.
Staff and Security Protocol Review
Keyamo directed all relevant aviation and complementary agencies to hold a retreat next week to retrain security personnel on handling disruptive passengers and de-escalating tense situations. Airlines will also undergo a separate review focusing on staff conduct towards passengers.
“These above decisions were taken purely on compassionate grounds,” he stated. “Government will never pander to base sentiments or warped legal opinions when clear encroachment of our laws are involved. We have decided to draw a line after these clemencies.”
